By removing 23 onerous trade barriers that had impeded trade between the two countries, Kenya and Tanzania have gone above and beyond in their objective to improve their commercial ties.
This action reflects the present administrative ideology in both countries. The presidents of both countries—President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania and President Willam Ruto of Kenya—have talked passionately and actively about the importance of fostering trade relations with other African countries.
In order to streamline logistics for moving goods to their partner states, they both started plans to construct railways that cross their borders and into other East African regions. Therefore, it is not surprising that both countries have decided to remove their trade restrictions.
The commerce between Kenya and Tanzania has now reached Sh100 billion for the first time, following President Hassan’s visit to Kenya in May 2021.
The Joint Trade Committee, a bilateral body made up of representatives from Kenya and Tanzania, was established one month after President Hassan’s visit to Kenya. Charged with identifying and resolving trade issues between the two countries, the body immediately identified 60 tariff and non-tariff barriers.
These included the abolition of inspection fees on processed goods with a standardized mark, such as wheat flour, the customs clearance of soft drinks produced in their territories, and the elimination of roaming calling fees after Tanzania joined the Common Network Area.
Source: Business Insider Africa
